Definition
Steric Hindrance is a phenomenon that prevents chemical reactions because of the large sized groups on the molecules. This bulky region of the molecule is therefore said to be sterically hindered.
Explanation
Molecules are not sterically hindered as a whole, instead, there are sterically hindered positions within a molecule. There are certain qualities that determine whether it is hindered or not.
- The smaller the size of atom attached to the carbon the less will be the steric hindrance.
- Bulkier the group more will be the steric hindrance.
- Hydrogen is the smallest atom with least steric hindrance.
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